Twice to the fair

The last time we gallivanted over to the fair, the husband and I exchanged books for admission. This time, we were a group of 15+ that bartered canned goods for entrance privileges. As we moseyed about the contemporary fairgrounds replete with fatty fare, costly diversions, and legions of patrons, my mind wandered to question how the ancient tradition came to be. I oft read about county fairs where entire towns gathered to witness local livestock and homemade goods be judged for supremacy, particularly during the era when pioneers farmed their own livestock and crops. I am aware we now live in a consumer society, but really, why don't we do these things at fairs anymore? I’m all for participating in a pie contest, rather than paying ten dollars for a kabob. Maybe I’m too influenced by Little House on the Prairie? Anyway, I am thankful for the husband who led the group through the vast sea of stalls to pinpoint the grilled cheese stand all in order to satisfy my grilled cheese sandwich craving. It was thoroughly fun to go with a band of friends, even though hanging out with younger folks always impresses upon us how we are past our prime – we were pooped by 9:00pm.